Anil Kumble, the former India captain, has laid out a clear path for the hosts to salvage the second Test against South Africa in Guwahati: bat out the next two days. South Africa dominated proceedings on Day 2, amassing a commanding 489, spearheaded by Senuran Muthusamy’s maiden Test hundred (109) and Marco Jansen’s aggressive 93. India concluded the day at 9/0, facing a daunting 480-run deficit.
Kumble advised a patient and disciplined approach, acknowledging that the pitch will likely offer more assistance to bowlers as the game progresses. “The spinners will certainly come into the game. But it will still be a good wicket to bat on, runs won’t be difficult,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for India to control the upcoming days. “If they control Day 3 and Day 4, they can start thinking about the second innings.”
The focus also falls on young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. Kumble believes Jaiswal needs time to settle in against the new ball, especially against the challenging pace of Marco Jansen. “He needs 30 to 45 minutes to adjust and survive Jansen’s first spell. If he does that, we’ll see the dominant Jaiswal everyone knows. He’ll definitely back himself against the spinners,” Kumble explained.
India’s bowlers managed to pick up wickets, but the crucial partnerships, particularly the one involving Muthusamy and Jansen, proved costly. Kuldeep Yadav finished with figures of 4/120, while Bumrah, Siraj, and Jadeja each claimed two wickets. Jansen’s seven sixes were a notable feature of his innings.
Kumble pointed to Jansen’s impactful batting as the turning point. His aggressive style and comfort against both spin and pace allowed South Africa to build a substantial lead. “His partnership with Muthusamy didn’t just take South Africa past 400; it pushed them close to 500,” Kumble added.
South Africa, on the cusp of a rare away series victory, holds a significant advantage. India’s survival now hinges entirely on its ability to bat resolutely and deny South Africa quick wickets over the next two days.
